What is Ransomware?

Ransomware is malicious software that can infect your computer and display a message demanding a fee to be paid in order for your system to work again. This class of malware is a criminal moneymaking scheme that can be installed through deceptive links in an email message, instant message, or website. It has the ability to lock a computer screen or encrypt
important, predetermined files with a password.

Scareware is the simplest type of ransomware. It uses scare tactics or intimidation to trick victims into paying up. It can come in the form of fake antivirus software in which a message suddenly appears claiming your computer has various issues and online payment is necessary to fix them!
Another type of ransomware can impersonate a law enforcement agency by opening up a page that appears to be from a local law enforcement office and claiming the computer user was caught performing illegal activities online. Files are then locked in hard-to-crack, encrypted files,
making it difficult for users to recover unless the ransom is paid.

No matter the scenario, even if the ransom is paid, there is no guarantee that computer users will be able to fully access their systems again. While there are software solutions available to help protect your users and your systems from this type of attack, the best defense is keeping your staff educated and making sure that they follow basic safety and security protocols such as only opening attachments from trusted sources reporting any suspicious emails immediately.

Contact Axigent today and learn how our managed IT services can help protect you from ransomware attacks and keep your systems safe.